Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu Claims Animal Fat Was Used in Tirupati Temple Offerings

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has sparked a political uproar with his recent statement accusing the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government of using animal fat in the offerings at the famous Tirupati Temple. This assertion has led to a flurry of political back-and-forth in the state.

During a meeting with the NDA legislative party, Naidu claimed that the previous government had utilized inferior materials in the preparation of the temple’s laddus, stating that animal fat was used instead of pure ghee. He noted that the current government has since switched to using pure ghee. The YSRCP, however, has outright rejected Naidu's allegations.

YSRCP Leaders Respond

YSRCP senior leader and former TTD chairman Y.V. Subba Reddy labeled Naidu's claims as malicious, stating that the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader would go to any lengths for political gain. He emphasized that Naidu’s comments have severely tarnished the sanctity of the Tirumala temple and hurt the sentiments of millions of Hindus.

Subba Reddy expressed that no person born into humanity would make such disparaging remarks about the sacred offerings of the temple, thereby proving that Naidu is willing to sacrifice integrity for political advantage.

Criticism from State Officials

In a related development, Andhra Pradesh's IT Minister Nara Lokesh criticized the Jagan Mohan Reddy administration. He took to Twitter to express his shock at the alleged use of animal fat in the prasadam at the Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala. Lokesh accused the YSRCP of failing to respect the religious sentiments of millions of devotees.

The Venkateswara Temple, known for its famous Tirupati laddus, is managed by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).

This controversy highlights the ongoing political tensions in Andhra Pradesh, with Naidu's comments igniting a debate over religious sentiments and the integrity of sacred offerings. As the political landscape evolves, both parties are likely to continue their exchanges, with the sacred temple at the center of this contentious dialogue.